Illinois State University Student Emergency Grant Funds
We understand that COVID-19 has created significant financial stress for many of us. Illinois State University has received funds through the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. These grant funds are provided to assist students with expenses related to the disruption of campus operations due to the coronavirus pandemic.
In addition to those funds, Illinois State University created the COVID-19 Redbird Response Fund to provide assistance to students who are facing emergency financial hardships due to the Coronavirus pandemic.
Student emergency grant funds of up to $500 may be available to students experiencing a COVID-19 related financial hardship. These expenses may include food and housing expenses, course materials, technology expenses, transportation, medical or health care expenses, child care, or other basic needs expenses. Amounts over $500 may be granted in cases of extraordinary need.
Eligibility Criteria
In order to qualify for funds from the federal CARES Act, the federal government requires students must be eligible for Title IV aid. In order to determine this eligibility, students must file the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). If a student has not filed the 2019-2020 FAFSA, they are encouraged to submit a FAFSA immediately. Students who are not eligible to file the FAFSA may still submit an emergency grant application for consideration of non-federal funds.
Application Process
Students who are in need of emergency financial assistance may submit an application online. The Emergency Fund Committee, made up of staff members from the Financial Aid Office reviews the submitted applications and determines the appropriate funding amount and source.
Funds distributed do not generally exceed $500. The committee will review applications for extraordinary circumstances of emergency financial need. Applicants may be required to provide additional information or supporting documentation to help explain specific needs and circumstances.
The number of students who can be served by these emergency funds is subject to the availability of funds. Priority may be given to students with demonstrated financial need as determined by the FAFSA (Free Application of Federal Student Aid). Priority may also be given to students who have not already received some form of emergency or hardship assistance.
For information on the application or process please contact the Financial Aid Office at Financialaid@IllinoisState.edu or (309) 438-2231.
Support the COVID-19 Redbird Response Fund
COVID-19 Redbird Response funds are available to Illinois State University students through the generous donations from alumni, parents, and friends from around the world. Your donations go directly to students to assist with financial hardships impacted by COVID-19. Your help is greatly appreciated.